The History Channel investigates the Spear of Destiny

The Echmiadzin lance is a relic believed to be the Spear of Destiny

After being showcased on The History Channel's "Brad Meltzer's Decoded," viewers everywhere are trying to find out more about the Spear of Destiny. So, what is it?

The Spear of Destiny, also known as the Holy Lance, is the spear that was used to pierce Jesus' side as he hung on the cross in the Gospel of John. In order to make sure that Jesus was dead, a Roman soldier, named Longinus, stabbed Jesus' side with a spear that was to become known as the Spear of Destiny. The Gospel says that after being stabbed, blood and water miraculously sprung from the wound.

As with other biblical objects, many relics claim to be the Spear of Destiny or part of the Spear of Destiny. This includes the Vatican lance, the Echmiadzin lance and the Vienna lance.

In recent years, the Holy Lance was dubbed the Spear of Destiny as accounts surfaced which attributed mystical powers to it. New Age and conspiracy theory texts have helped enforce the mythological powers of the Spear of Destiny.